The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell speaks next to Spain’s Minister of Defence Margarita Robles (not pictured) at a press conference during the informal EU ministerial meeting on defence in Toledo, Spain August 30, 2023. REUTERS/Isabel Infantes
European Union’s top diplomat, Josep Borrell, expressed profound concern and dismay over the significant number of casualties resulting from Israel’s bombing of the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza. Borrell emphasized the importance of upholding international rules of war and respecting the laws of war and humanity in all circumstances, particularly when it comes to humanitarian assistance.
Borrell referred to the EU Council’s stance, which recognizes Israel’s right to self-defense in accordance with international humanitarian law, while emphasizing the necessity of protecting all civilians. He reiterated the urgency of implementing pauses in Israeli bombings and Hamas rocket attacks to facilitate the safe delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza through secure corridors. EU leaders have voiced deep apprehension about the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the region.
Reports from Palestinian health officials indicated that Israeli air strikes on the densely populated Jabalia refugee camp had resulted in at least 50 Palestinian casualties. Israel contended that the strike had targeted a key figure involved in last month’s deadly Hamas attack on the country.
United Nations and other humanitarian agencies have underscored the dire public health crisis faced by civilians in the besieged Palestinian enclave, with hospitals struggling to cope with an increasing number of casualties due to diminishing electricity supplies.
Despite international appeals for a “humanitarian pause” in the fighting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed these calls, citing concerns that Hamas would exploit any ceasefire to their advantage. The safety and protection of civilians remain a moral and legal obligation, as reiterated by Borrell.
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